Prior to becoming part of Naples Airport Authority in 1959, the airfield was built in 1943 to support the nation’s World War II efforts. After the war ended, the military transferred the airfield to the City of Naples and Collier County.
Fifty years ago, on July 3, 1969, the Florida Legislature created an independent authority at the request of the Naples City Council, and the management of the airport was transferred to the City of Naples Airport Authority under a 99-year lease.
The Florida Department of Transportation values the airport’s local economic impact at more than $440 million annually.
– Cyndee Woolley, APR, C2 Communications